The Playlist [Music Edit]

June was full of surprises, both good and not so exciting, and July has already started off brilliantly. The best thing to take away when the going gets tough, so-to-speak is a positive outcome. Thus, I’ve been acquiring more fresh flowers than normal (to brighten every room) and kicking my workout routine up a few notches, which always makes me feel better. But, it’s really all about the playlists sometimes for motivation, isn’t it?

Summer is filled with exciting concerts and festivals, and we’re determined to make at least one or two.

It’s always difficult to choose for a music roundup because my playlist is almost endless, so I decided to select random songs from my lists for each section.

Sets in Motion: The Cardio Sessions:  

I listen to a lot of music! This is an understatement, and with musician friends, it’s hard not to, so I generally like a more amplified playlist for working out. Switching things up helps and occasionally I select songs that I don’t need to know all the words to so that I can focus on my workout. Otherwise, all I want to do is sing and dance, instead of remembering how many reps I’m on. I reckon a little bit of both doesn’t hurt!

The Morning Run:

• “Touch The Sky“ by Kanye West
• “Genesis,” by Grimes
• “Waiting All Night” (Rudimental), Remix by Kidnap Kid
• “Faded” (Odesza), Remix by ZHU

Thinking & Relaxation: Kicking off your shoes, and take a breather after a long day.

For me, this doesn’t exactly mean that I always want to hear a symphony during this time (although, as a former violinist I do love classical music), but it just means there’s likely to be a more calmer ambiance and music selection than my workout playlist.

• On Repeat: “Work Song” by Hozier, the whole album is fantastic, but this song is one of my favourites. And, speaking of Hozier, Amber Run did a lovely cover of “Someone New,” here. You may remember the band from this post. We’re excited to see his show live soon.

• Lissie is an amazing folk singer-songwriter, and I saw her live for the first time over a year ago. Her performances are raw and very passionate. Here’s her rendition of Kid Cudi’s “Pursuit of Happiness.” Although I love the original, with this one, she did really make it her own, and it’s good as well. Below is a live version of “They All Want You.”

Art Studio & Crafting Motivation: 

For crafting posts and drawing, I like to have a pretty diverse playlist moderately blasting in the background. Ironically, I cannot by any means have a television on when I am in art or crafting mode. But, music is an entirely different story.

• “Don’t Wanna Fight,” Alabama Shakes, if anyone says that lead singer Brittany Howard doesn’t give 110% every time she plays and sings, then surely they must be without sight and hearing. There’s plenty of strong vocals, wicked guitars, and riffs that will stay with you for a while. Alabama Shakes are a great band (as a whole) as well to see live if you get the chance to catch them. 
• “Wildfire” by SBTRKT, featuring Little Dragon
• Nao’s upbeat song “Golden,” will help get the creative juices flowing. But, then there’s also for those melodic paintbrush nights as well.

Breaking Bread & Sipping Wine:  

Ah, yes, let us eat and be merry! There’s nothing like preparing for a great dinner party. Before guests arrive we usually have a few favourite tunes playing in the kitchen as the culinary slicing and dicing occurs. Usually, “Signed, Sealed, Delivered, I’m Yours“ starts the cooking vibe. Next, catchy, punchy lyrics or even sensual sounds might commence. Either way, these below certainly will help pump up the mood, bring back lovable memories, or capture an upbeat mood in the process.

• “Gold,” by twenty-year-old singer-songwriter/pop artist Kiiara, collaborated with Felix Snow for this track and the result is an unexpected and impressively arranged piece of work. Be sure to catch her EP Meet Me In The Cornfield debuting soon.

• Jessie J’s cover of Michael Jackson’s “Rock With You” 

• Jacob Banks is no stranger to the music scene, in fact, he lended his voice to be part of the FIFA 15 soundtrack, with the song “Move With You.” The full, crisp, and soulful seasoning of Banks’ voice is enough to give you a bit of a chill whilst listening. The song, “Worthy”  released in 2013 is a testament to that. Check out his new single, Grace” here.

Dated Deliveries: from noteworthy talent to unforgettable flashbacks!

• Youth making moves: This promising singer-songwriting teenager will surely get more than a little buzz soon, Anjelo Disons’ raspy voice has that special something. Check out his work here.
• “La Vida Es Un Carnaval,” a perfect summer song and an equally memorable and dance-worthy tune, by the late (and incredibly gifted) Celia Cruz. I’m pretty certain that not moving to this song at all has got to be a sin, no?

Have you enjoyed any summer concerts or festivals yet?

Main images: Fashion Tales, album art (S) edited via Fashion Tales.